Techno-Economic Analysis of Photovoltaic-LiIon Battery for Micro Grid Application: Case Study in Northern Cyprus

Renewable energy sources cannot provide continuous and stable energy due to their variable output power characteristics, hence the need for energy storage systems. Island grids that are not connected or limited to another grid with high system balance and generation power for various reasons, can meet the load demand stably and efficiently with the use of renewable energy and storage systems. The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) cannot meet the electricity demand despite its high potential to generate renewable energy. It is an island and has a land connection only with the Greek Cypriot Administration. However, the political relations between the two sides are weak. To find a more efficient, environmentally friendly, and more sustainable solution to TRNC's electricity demand, this paper examines the use of hybrid solar energy systems. More specifically, the paper analyzes the use of energy storage systems by scaling the electricity production and consumption values of the Serhatkoy region. By examining the conjuncture of the TRNC, which operates in micro-grid mode by being disconnected from the main grid, this paper proposes an alternative system as an outcome. The simulation analysis reveals that with this new system the need for the main grid can be reduced cost-effectively while meeting the technical requirements. In addition, there is a direct correlation between the financial income and production rate of solar energy.